The application deadline for the Alabama Power Foundation’s new “Power To Play” grant program is this Sunday, Sept. 14 at 7 p.m.

The Power To Play grant program focuses on the importance of keeping students active in sports and will award $2,500 to each of 36 schools throughout the state to support their athletic programs. The program aims to help high school athletic programs break down barriers to student participation.

Research shows students who participate in athletics get better grades and are more likely to graduate from high school, among other benefits.

Finalists for the grants will be chosen on Sept. 22. Finalists will then compete in an online ballot process, during which members of the community can vote to support their school. Winners will be announced Dec. 3.

To learn more or to apply for a Power To Play grant, please visit www.powerofgood.com.

The Alabama Power Foundation awards more than 1,000 grants annually with non-ratepayer money and has assets of more than $140 million, making it one of the largest corporate foundations in the state. The foundation has given more than $140 million through more than 20,000 grants and scholarships. Learn more about the foundation at www.powerofgood.com.